New Dzükou watchtower not inside valley, SAYO clarifies

DIMAPUR — Construction of a new watchtower near Dzükou valley has sparked concern on social media, prompting the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) to clarify its location and purpose.

The concrete watchtower is being built at the general base camp, approximately 1.5 kilometres from the valley’s scenic area, and not within the valley itself as some social media comments have suggested.

Concerns arose after a video of the construction site garnered over 92,000 views on social media, with some users expressing worry about potential environmental impacts.

Metekhrelie Mejura, President of SAYO, clarified that the decision to build a concrete tower stemmed from safety concerns regarding the existing wooden watchtower at the base camp.

Mejura told this newspaper that the new watchtower, approximately 10 feet tall, is being constructed with partial financial assistance from the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change. He emphasised that the location was carefully chosen to minimise any environmental impact on the valley.

“The watchtower is situated right outside the general base camp, which is 1.5 km away by foot to the actual scenic Dzükou valley,” he said, adding that the project is expected to be completed this month.

Dzükou Valley, known for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity, is a popular destination for domestic and international tourists.

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